Meta hits smart glasses with subscription for Conversation Focus feature

Meta has quietly introduced a rate limit on the Conversation Focus feature of its AI smart glasses, requiring users to pay a monthly subscription for extended use. The feature, which amplifies the voice of the person you're speaking to in noisy environments, is now limited to three hours per month for free. For $19.99 a month, the Meta One Premium plan unlocks up to 15 hours of use, though unused hours do not roll over Source: BBC, The Verge.

The paywall controversy

The move has drawn criticism because Conversation Focus runs entirely on-device and does not require an internet connection Source: The Verge. "It's a strange choice to paywall, since it seemingly doesn't use Meta's servers," notes Gizmodo Source: Gizmodo. Additionally, the feature is seen as a hearing assistance tool, making the paywall appear insensitive Source: Gizmodo. A Meta spokesperson told WIRED that this is "not an AI rate limit" and that the subscription is meant to support ongoing development and offer premium support Source: WIRED.

Reaction and context

Users have expressed frustration, with one writing to Meta's product lead that "putting Conversation Focus behind a paywall feels wrong" Source: BBC. Meta has not confirmed whether other on-device features will face similar limits, but the company has been testing premium subscriptions across its platforms Source: BBC. The Verge criticizes the move as "ridiculous," noting that Meta laid off around 10% of its workforce to offset AI costs Source: The Verge.